HATTRICK Hosts Charity Auction for Kumamoto Recovery
HATTRICK, operated by Valuence Japan Inc., is set to host a charity auction featuring singer-songwriter Takumi Sugimoto from Kumamoto. The event, dubbed the "Takumi Sugimoto Kumamoto Earthquake Recovery 'Batten' Project Charity Auction," will take place from June 22 to June 28, 2026. This significant auction is designed to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the devastating Kumamoto earthquake and aims to contribute to the ongoing recovery efforts.
A Personal Connection
Takumi Sugimoto, a rising star in the music industry, made his major debut in 2023. Hailing from Kumamoto, he gained notoriety on TikTok as the "Kumamoto Boyfriend," using regional dialect to create relatable content. Presently, he has over 1.21 million followers on the platform, and his total social media following exceeds 2.07 million. His passion for his hometown is at the heart of this charity effort, developed out of a compelling desire to aid in its recovery and keep its vibrant culture alive.
His "Batten" project symbolizes a fusion of hope and community spirit, using music to reflect on Kumamoto's recovery journey. The term "Batten" translates to "however" or "but" in Kumamoto dialect, and it embodies various meanings, including the importance of unity and collaboration. This project song is infused with Sugimoto's heartfelt lyrics that capture aspirations for a brighter future and the resilience it takes to rebuild after disaster.
Unique Auction Items
The charity auction highlights a special item of interest: a jersey worn during the shooting of the music video for the project song "Batten," which will be signed by Sugimoto himself. This jersey is not just merchandise; it represents a touching collaboration between Sugimoto and the Kumamoto Prefectural Chinsei High School Dance Club, who performed alongside him in the video. This heartfelt artifact will enable auction participants to own a piece of a significant cultural moment while directly contributing to recovery efforts.
The proceeds from this auction, after covering necessary costs, will be redirected to support ongoing initiatives for rebuilding Kumamoto following the earthquake that shook the region in 2016. With this, HATTRICK continues its commitment to nurturing fan experiences through items born from the realms of sports and entertainment.
A Message from Takumi Sugimoto
Sugimoto expressed his gratitude for being in a position to contribute to recovery efforts, saying, "Having seen Kumamoto go through this ordeal and now, ten years later, I am keen on doing what I can through my music and the 'Batten Project.' It’s a privilege to be able to engage in this, and I plan to keep promoting Kumamoto and its journey ahead."
Auction Details
- - Event Duration: June 22, 2026 (18:00) - June 28, 2026 (22:00)
- - Auction Item: Signed jersey worn in the music video for the song "Batten".
- - Auction Page URL: HATTRICK Auction Site
For further details, interested parties are encouraged to visit the auction page. This charity auction not only offers fans a unique opportunity to support a noble cause but also keeps the memories of Kumamoto alive in the hearts of those willing to contribute.
About HATTRICK
HATTRICK operates under Valuence Japan Inc. with a mission to build a sustainable future for challengers in various fields. HATTRICK Auction and HATTRICK Members are two platforms designed to connect talented individuals with fans, offering exclusive items and experiences. They aim to create new value and foster closer ties between artists and their supporters.
Conclusion
This charity auction stands as a beacon of hope for Kumamoto, providing a platform where art meets purpose. By participating in this event, you’re not just acquiring a unique item but also embedding yourself in a story of resilience and recovery. Join Takumi Sugimoto and HATTRICK as they pave the way for Kumamoto's continuing journey to recovery.